Pest identification
What's eating my giant sacaton grass?
Aphids
Signs: Sticky honeydew on stems and leaf bases; small insect colonies on new growth in spring
Control: Dislodge with a strong water spray; apply insecticidal soap for heavier infestations; encourage natural predators
Grasshoppers
Signs: Chewed and ragged leaf margins; visible defoliation during dry summers or grasshopper outbreak years
Control: Apply Nosema locustae bait in spring before nymph populations peak; tolerate minor damage on large plants
Rabbits
Signs: Gnawed stems at crown level on young or newly planted specimens before plants are well-established
Control: Use wire mesh guards on young plants; the issue typically resolves as plants grow too large to browse easily
Keep giant sacaton grass pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Giant Sacaton Grass pests — FAQ
What is eating my giant sacaton grass?
Giant Sacaton is a large, robust Southwestern native grass with strong pest resistance. Aphids can colonise stems in spring, and grasshoppers occasionally feed on foliage during droughts. Deer and rabbits generally avoid mature clumps. Its size and drought tolerance mean established plants shrug off most pest pressure effectively.
How do I get rid of aphids on giant sacaton grass?
Sticky honeydew on stems and leaf bases; small insect colonies on new growth in spring Dislodge with a strong water spray; apply insecticidal soap for heavier infestations; encourage natural predators
How do I get rid of grasshoppers on giant sacaton grass?
Chewed and ragged leaf margins; visible defoliation during dry summers or grasshopper outbreak years Apply Nosema locustae bait in spring before nymph populations peak; tolerate minor damage on large plants
How do I get rid of rabbits on giant sacaton grass?
Gnawed stems at crown level on young or newly planted specimens before plants are well-established Use wire mesh guards on young plants; the issue typically resolves as plants grow too large to browse easily